Matthew Lasher ’16 Explains Why He’s Already Giving Back
Giving to Alpha Delta Chapter less than a year after graduating was something that Matthew Lasher ’16 didn’t need to think twice about. After the life-changing experience he had at Chi Phi, he says that he just wants other young men to be able to have the same.
We caught up for a Q&A with Matt, who let us know where he’s headed next and shared some thoughts about the Chi Phi brotherhood that are sure to strike a chord with many of us.
What has your Chi Phi experience been like?
Joining Chi Phi was easily the best decision that I have made in my entire life. As a freshman in college, I really wasn’t sure where I would fit in or who I would hang-out with. Luckily, during my sophomore year, I decided to rush Chi Phi. Sure, the house was beautiful, and the idea of being in a fraternity at Penn State was enticing, but what really made me decide to join was the brotherhood. There was a sense of unity throughout the house that really was unique during the rush process. I decided to accept my bid, and I haven’t looked back since.
What are your favorite memories from Chi Phi?
There really are too many to count. I loved the socials, the football tailgates, and the brotherhood events such as volleyball games and camping. However, my favorite memories that stick with me are the nights outside on the patio where the brotherhood would just hang out. There was no better feeling than being in the same place as seventy of my best friends just talking and having fun.
How has Chi Phi influenced your life so far?
Chi Phi made me into the man that I am today. Not only has the fraternity taught me leadership skills, but I also learned so many life lessons under great mentors that span generations of Chi Phis. People like Rishi Mittal ’14, Tom Scully ’16, Connor Cunningham ’16, Bob Berg ’76, Rich Konzmann ’90, Jon Knipe ’93, and even our Chef, Deb, have all had a positive impact on my life.
What inspired you to make a gift to the chapter so soon after graduating?
You often don’t realize what you have until it’s gone. After graduating, I realized how much of an impact Chi Phi had on my life. I donated, and will continue to donate, because I want other men to have the same life-changing experience that I did.
However, donating is not enough. The most successful fraternities are those with strong communications between the actives and alumni. As the fraternity world continues to change, it is even more important that alumni ask the actives what we can do to help. It goes a long way to reach out, put ourselves in the positions of 18-21 year-olds, and offer our life experience to the actives.
Do you plan to stay in touch with brothers/Alpha Delta Chapter in the future?
Of course! I continue to talk to brothers on a daily basis.
What makes you proud to belong to Chi Phi?
For 193 years, Chi Phi has stood as a beacon for Truth, Honor, and Personal Integrity. I love being a part of an organization that does so much towards the betterment of society.
What did you study at Penn State? What’s next for you now?
I graduated from Penn State in 2016 with two majors: (1) Political Sciences and (2) Classical Studies. I also minored in Latin.
I am currently a law student at The University of Richmond T.C. Williams School of Law. I will be clerking at a law firm in Erie, Pennsylvania this summer. My hope is to receive my J.D. in two years and then begin to practice.